Eating alfresco has really taken off during the pandemic, but the trend of dining outside is here to stay, even if the warm weather isn’t! Alfresco is an Italian expression meaning ‘in the fresh air’, and this concept has created a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience for customers in difficult circumstances over the past 18 months.
Outdoor eating in Chorlton has become a staple of Covid-times, as scientists are confident that the virus is less likely to spread in fresh air or well-ventilated places. Although eating outside isn’t new to the UK, much like video conferencing, its popularity has accelerated thanks to the pandemic. As cities have encouraged restaurants, cafes and coffee shops to create outdoor seated areas, customers have jumped at the chance to eat out in a safe and healthy environment.
Now that much of the adult population is vaccinated, will dinner outdoors remain as popular? It seems so. Even since Freedom Day on the 19th July, Brits are still cautious about mixing too much with others. Data from Sage reveals that people’s daily contacts are hovering at around a quarter of what they were pre-pandemic which makes outdoor eating and beer gardens in Chorlton an excellent option. With tables spaced apart and the ability to use contactless ordering and payments, dining outside is a positive experience for anyone who wants to do their part in halting the spread of coronavirus.
Additionally, it seems that the government is actively encouraging alfresco dining, having recently extended the licences of many establishments to continue serving on pavements. Restaurants, bars, cafes, coffee shops, bistros and pubs are also allowed to continue serving takeaway pints in a bid to ensure that outdoor dining remains part of our culture in the years to come.
Staying warm
Now for the elephant in the room, the great British weather! Whilst it’s true that our country isn’t known for its tropical climate, there are other European regions such as Scandinavia which are far colder than ours yet have embraced outdoor dining as part of their psyche. Italy and Spain too offer tables outdoors regardless of whether it’s January or July.
The key is knowing how to adapt your outdoor seating area so that it’s suitable in all weathers. In hot weather, a covered patio or parasols offering shade to keep diners cool is a must, along with insect-repellent candles and plants to keep biters at bay. Misters or fans are also welcomed in particularly scorching temperatures.
When the weather turns cool, outdoor firepits or patio heaters will ensure customers remain warm, and a covered seating area, marquee or dome will stop any downpours being a problem. Blankets can also be provided for customers who want an extra layer of comfort.
Eating outside just feels better
There’s something about dining outdoors that just adds an extra level of ambience. When the sun is shining, there’s nothing quite like heading to our suntrap secret garden at Barrio Chorlton and ordering from our delicious menu of salads and light bites. If you’re with friends, then nibbling your way through a taco sharing platter is the perfect way to spend your time.
If you choose to dine outdoors in autumn or winter, then the dark nights and twinkling lights add a charming festive vibe to your meal. Choose heartier Latin fare like quesadillas and enjoy the best coffee in Chorlton after your meal.
The health benefits of eating outside
If you’re not already sold on the prospect of eating outdoors, then be assured that it’s great for your health too. Numerous studies support the idea that spending any amount of time outdoors can have a positive impact on your health. So even if you only have time for a quick sandwich, or a cup of your favourite brew, you can be assured that the experience of being outdoors is doing wonders for your body.
Here are some of the top health benefits associated with dining outdoors:
- Reduced stress – being outside can lower your heart rate and blood pressure, whilst reducing muscle tension and decreasing the presence of the stress hormone cortisol in your bloodstream.
- Boosting your mood – if you tend to spend a lot of your day inside, then getting a breath of fresh air at lunchtime can do wonders for your mood. Being inside is associated with both depression and anxiety, whilst taking in your natural outdoor surroundings can alleviate symptoms of both.
- Enhanced concentration – another positive benefit for anyone sat at a desk all day – getting outside can also help with your attention, memory and concentration. If you’re in need of a productivity boost, then stepping away from your desk for an hour and heading to our Chorlton secret garden is just what you’ve been looking for.
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases – when the stress hormone cortisol is in play, high blood pressure, cholesterol, heart disease and stroke are all more likely. Spending time outside can lower your cortisol levels and can also increase activity if you walk to and from our Chorlton outdoor dining venue.
Increased social experiences
Socialising is good for us too, so why not use outdoor eating as a chance to meet a couple of friends and unwind over a cup of coffee, one of our delicious cocktails and of course our scrumptious Latin fare? If you’ve spent too much of the past 18 months socialising via Zoom or FaceTime, then take the opportunity to meet face-to-face in a charming location in Chorlton.
Our venue follows the government’s Covid guidelines to the letter and is delighted to present our south-facing suntrap secret garden as a safe space for our customers to enjoy.
To make a booking, please contact Barrio Chorlton today on 0161 860 4415 or email barriochorlton@gmail.com